The Box

Brand new Deptford salon that offers the latest unisex styling

Deptford High Street London, SE8 4NS

0208 691 7563

Unisex Fashion forward Hairsalon located in London's Deptford

Balayage vs Highlights: What’s Best for Your Hair?

September 29, 2025  /  Robert Ossant

Hair colour is one of the fastest ways to refresh your look, but choosing between balayage and highlights can feel overwhelming. Both techniques offer brightness, dimension and style, yet they achieve it in very different ways. At The Box, our award-winning salon in Deptford, balayage and highlights are among our most requested services.

What is Balayage?

Woman with Balayage hair at The Box hair, Deptford

Balayage is a freehand colouring technique where colour is painted directly onto the hair without foils. The result is a soft, sun-kissed effect that blends seamlessly from root to tip.

Clients love balayage because it grows out naturally, meaning you can go longer between appointments without worrying about harsh regrowth. Whether you are looking for subtle caramel tones, glossy brunettes or bold blonde blends, the effect is always modern and effortless.

Our colourists specialise in tailoring balayage to suit your face shape, skin tone and personal style. It is adaptable too, working just as well for understated elegance as it does for bolder, more fashion-forward looks.

What are Highlights?

Woman with blonde highlights by the Box Hair, Deptford

Highlights remain a classic colour service, using foils to lift strands of hair from root to tip. The result is brighter and more uniform than balayage, with contrast that can range from soft and natural to bold and dramatic.

Highlights generally need a little more upkeep, as regrowth is more visible, but they are perfect if you want an all-over lightened effect or a stronger frame of brightness around your face.

At The Box, highlights are still a popular choice for clients who prefer a polished, high-impact finish.

Balayage vs Highlights: Which Suits You?

When deciding between balayage and highlights, the right choice depends on your lifestyle and style goals.

  • Maintenance: Balayage offers a softer grow-out, so you can stretch the time between appointments. Highlights usually need refreshing sooner.

  • Style: Balayage feels more natural and blended, while highlights deliver crisp, uniform brightness.

  • Hair Health: Both techniques can be paired with strengthening treatments such as Olaplex or K18 to keep hair glossy and strong.

Our stylists will always take time to talk through what you want, whether you are after lived-in colour that grows out gently or a brighter, more defined effect.

Why Choose The Box for Balayage

Located near Deptford station, The Box is known for precision cuts, expert colour and a focus on hair health. Our team is trained in both balayage and highlights, giving you a finish that feels fresh, flattering and easy to wear.

We only use professional products from Davines, L’Oréal, K18 and Olaplex to maintain the strength and shine of your hair. Whether you are looking for a balayage refresh or full highlights, we combine technical skill with a creative touch to ensure your colour lasts and looks great long after you leave the chair.